Exploring the Advancements in Endoscopy Technology: Enhancing Diagnosis and Treatment

Endoscopy technology makes it possible to diagnose and treat a wide variety of disorders and diseases associated with your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Some of the most common forms of endoscopy endoscopy will be explored below, but if you'd like to learn more about all the advances available at your local East Patchogue, NY, office then reach out to your local GI experts at Great South Bay Endoscopy.

Endoscope

The GI tract is typically divided into two sections, the upper and lower. The upper GI tract includes the esophagus, stomach, and the first section of the small intestine, while the lower GI tract refers to the large intestine and anus. The different types of conditions that can affect your digestive system can affect both the upper and lower GI tract, and they can typically also be diagnosed and treated in a minimally invasive way using endoscopy technology.

An endoscope is, in essence, a long flexible tube with a very small camera and light attached to the end, but the specifics of the device vary depending on the procedure to be performed.

Upper Endoscopy

As the name suggests, an upper endoscopy is used to diagnose and sometimes treat problems with the upper part of the digestive system.

Some of the most commonly addressed conditions can include heartburn, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, and gastrointestinal bleeding, among others. The procedure can also be used to collect tissue samples, detect cancer, widen a narrow esophagus, and stop bleeding, among others.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is also a type of endoscopy but it's used on the lower GI tract to diagnose problems localized in this area of the digestive system as well as to screen for colorectal cancer.

Colon cancer doesn't typically manifest symptoms until the condition is already advanced, so colon cancer screenings are very important to prevent serious complications. In its early stages, polyps, which are potentially cancerous growths, can usually be safely removed during screenings.

Endoscopy in East Patchogue, NY

If you need treatment or prevention for GI-related conditions, endoscopy technology services can help. Schedule a consultation in East Patchogue, NY, with our local gastroenterologists at Great South Bay Endoscopy by dialing (631) 307-9181.